Hydrogen Atom and Relatavistic Corrections - What does this Alpha mean

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the relativistic corrections for the energy shift of the protonium ground state, specifically using the First Kinetic Energy (KE) Term and the Darwin Term. The equations provided are: KE Term, ΔE₁ = (1/2)mc²(zα)⁴/n⁴[(n/(l + 1/2)) - 3/4], and Darwin Term, ΔE₃ = (1/2)mc²(zα)⁴/n³. The fine structure constant, α, defined as α = e²/(4πε₀ħc) ≈ 1/137, is crucial for these calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the fine structure constant (α)
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy terms in quantum systems
  • Basic principles of atomic structure, specifically protonium and hydrogen
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the fine structure constant (α) in quantum mechanics
  • Study the derivation and applications of the Darwin Term in atomic physics
  • Explore relativistic corrections in other atomic systems beyond hydrogen and protonium
  • Investigate computational methods for calculating energy shifts in quantum systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists focusing on atomic structure, and anyone interested in the relativistic effects in hydrogen-like atoms.

TFM
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Homework Statement



Okay, I need to work out the Relativistic corrections for an atom, using the First KE Term and the Darwin Term:

Calculate the energy shift of the protonium groundstate due to the relativistic correction to the kinetic energy and the Darwin term and compare it to Hydrogen

Homework Equations



KE Term:

\Delta E_1 = \frac{1}{2}mc^2 \frac{(z\alpha)^4}{n^4}\left( \frac{n}{l + \frac{1}{2}} - \frac{3}{4}\right)

Darwin Term:

\Delta E_3 = \frac{1}{2}mc^2 \frac{(z\alpha)^4}{n^3}

The Attempt at a Solution



I know I just need to insert the values into these equations to get out the answer. However I am niot quite sure what the alpha represents?

TFM
 
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I see. Thanks. Most appreciated. :smile:
 

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